Can You Install Solar on Flat, Tile, or Metal Roofs in Arizona? Here’s What Homeowners Need to Know

Are you considering solar energy for your home in Phoenix? Now is the perfect time to harness the power of the sun and take advantage of significant savings through federal and state tax credits. Our team at Phoenix Valley Solar can help you navigate these incentives and maximize your savings. You can also use our Arizona Solar Calculator to get an estimate of your potential benefits.

One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering solar is:

“Can solar panels work with my type of roof?”

In Arizona, that’s an important question — because homes here come with a wide range of roofing materials and structures: tile roofs, flat roofs, and increasingly, metal roofs on custom homes and modern builds.

The good news? Yes — solar works on all of them. But each roof type has unique installation considerations that affect cost, efficiency, and design.

Here’s what you need to know about solar panel installation on different roof types in Arizona, and how to get the most value no matter what kind of home you own.

1. Solar on Tile Roofs: Popular and Proven

Tile roofs — especially concrete S-tiles and clay tiles — are extremely common in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the East Valley.

They’re durable, fire-resistant, and great for insulation, but solar installation requires:

• Specialized mounts that lift panels off the tile

• Tile removal or replacement in panel areas to avoid cracking

• Extra labor for precision drilling and sealing

Pros:

• Great sun exposure (most tile homes are built for it)

• Long roof lifespan matches solar panel life

• High curb appeal when designed well

Considerations:

• Slightly higher installation cost

• May require replacement of underlayment or damaged tiles during install

Tip: Choose a solar company that has experience working with tile roofs and partners with licensed roofing contractors.

2. Solar on Flat Roofs: Ideal for Custom Layouts

Flat roofs are common in historic Phoenix homes, modern architecture, and new construction in the Valley.

With a flat roof, we install a tilt racking system to angle the panels toward the sun — usually at 10–20 degrees for optimal production.

Pros:

• Total flexibility in panel layout

• Easier access for maintenance

• Panels are hidden from street view — great for HOAs

Considerations:

• Requires ballasted racking (weighted mounts) or membrane anchors

• Panel tilt can be adjusted, but snow and debris buildup must be monitored (minimal issue in AZ)

Tip: Make sure your flat roof is in good condition or has been recently recoated before installing solar — it’s easier to do both at once.

3. Solar on Metal Roofs: Durable and Efficient

Metal roofs are gaining popularity in Arizona for their:

• Long lifespan (40+ years)

• Heat reflectivity (great for lowering cooling bills)

• Clean aesthetic

The most common types are standing seam metal roofs, which are ideal for solar.

Pros:

• Easy to install solar with clamp-on mounts — no drilling

• Minimal roof penetrations

• Sleek, modern look when panels match panel color and lines

Considerations:

• Not all metal roofs are the same — corrugated or ribbed panels require different hardware

• Installers must be trained to preserve warranties and use appropriate mounts

Tip: Metal roofs and solar pair best when installed together — ask us about bundling both to maximize value and tax incentives.

4. What About Roof Age and Condition?

No matter what type of roof you have, your solar installer should evaluate:

• Roof age and materials

• Underlayment condition

• Drainage and water sealing

• Load-bearing capacity

If your roof is 15–20+ years old, it may be time to replace or upgrade before installing solar. This ensures:

• Long-term protection

• No need to remove panels for repairs later

• Full warranty coverage for both roof and solar

At Phoenix Valley Solar, we partner with local roofing companies to handle tile repairs, membrane upgrades, and metal panel work — all in one package.

5. Does Roof Type Affect Solar Incentives?

No — all roof types are eligible for:

• The 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit

• The $1,000 Arizona Solar Tax Credit

• SRP and APS interconnection programs

• Local solar property tax exemptions

The key is to work with a licensed installer who provides code-compliant mounting, ensures roof warranties are preserved, and delivers city-approved plans and permits.

Why Phoenix Valley Solar?

We’ve installed thousands of systems across all Arizona roof types, including:

• Flat-roof historic homes in Downtown Phoenix

• Spanish-style tile homes in Chandler and Scottsdale

• Modern standing seam metal homes in Paradise Valley and Cave Creek

• HOA-regulated rooftops in Sun City and Gilbert

We’re proud to be the best solar company in Phoenix for smart design, premium hardware, and hassle-free installations that respect your home’s architecture.

Not Sure if Your Roof Is Solar-Ready?

Contact Phoenix Valley Solar today for a free inspection and design consultation. We’ll assess your roof, explain your options, and give you a custom plan — so you get the most out of your solar investment, no matter what’s under your feet.

Are you considering solar energy for your home in Phoenix? Now is the perfect time to harness the power of the sun and take advantage of significant savings through federal and state tax credits. Our team at Phoenix Valley Solar can help you navigate these incentives and maximize your savings. You can also use our Arizona Solar Calculator to get an estimate of your potential benefits.